Geometry

Geometry, the branch of mathematics concerned with the shape of individual objects, the spatial relationships between different objects, and the properties of surrounding space. It is one of the oldest branches of mathematics, arising in response to practical problems encountered in surveying, and derives its name from Greek words meaning “land measurement”. Eventually it was realized that geometry should not be limited to the study of flat surfaces (aerial geometry) and rigid three-dimensional objects (solid geometry) but that the most abstract ideas and images could be presented and developed in geometric terms. is

This article begins with a brief guide post to the major branches of geometry and then moves on to a broader historical treatment. For information on specific branches of geometry, see Euclidean geometry, analytic geometry, projective geometry, differential geometry, non-Euclidean geometry, and topology.